Best Protein Powders for Women

Best Protein Powders for Women

Protein supplements can be a great way to help lose fat, gain muscle, or simply improve diet. But when most powders are marketed toward men, it can be pretty tough to make a good choice.

To help, here’s our list of the 20 best protein powders for women, with the best picks for weight loss, building muscle, and more.

Farther down, we present research on protein powder’s side effects, nutritional value, and more.

Quick Glance: 7 of 20
PRO NUTRITION LABS Whey Protein Vanilla Powder for Women - Supports Lean Muscle Mass - Low Carb - Gluten Free - Grass Fed and rBGH Hormone Free Vanilla Whey (Creamy Vanilla, 1 lb) Best Whey: Her Natural Whey Protein Powder

“This is a great-tasting, naturally-sweetened whey protein powder perfect for supporting lean muscle and fat loss.”
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Ascent Casein Protein Powder - 25g Micellar Casein Powder with Zero Artificial Flavors & Sweeteners, Gluten-Free, No Added Sugar, 4.9g BCAA, 2.2g Leucine - Chocolate, 2 Pounds Best for Weight Loss: Ascent Native Fuel Casein Protein

“This is a healthy, lean, filling protein powder that’s perfect for weight loss.”
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Natural Force Grass Fed Organic Whey Protein Powder – Non GMO Verified, Humane Certified & Lab Tested for Toxins – Real Vanilla Flavor – Keto Friendly, Low Carb, and Kosher - 16 Ounce A2 Protein Best Taste: Natural Force Organic Whey Protein

“This whey protein powders comes in three delicious flavors with minimal, organic ingredients.”
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Revel Whey Protein Powder for Women | 25g Protein | Supports Weight Loss Metabolism Lean Muscle | 2lbs (Simply Vanilla) Best Muscle Gain Protein: Revel Whey Protein Powder

“Revel offers this female-focused protein powder blend perfect for building muscle.”
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KOS Vegan Protein Powder Erythritol Free, Chocolate - Organic Pea Protein Blend, Plant Based Superfood Rich in Vitamins & Minerals - Keto, Dairy Free - Meal Replacement for Women & Men, 28 Servings Best Vegan Protein: KOS Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder

“This blend of five vegan protein sources is a rich source of protein and other nutrients.”
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Beverly International UMP Protein Powder, Cookies & Cream. Unique Whey-Casein Ratio Builds Lean Muscle. Easy to Digest. No Bloat. (32.8 oz) 2lb .8 oz Best Weight Gain Protein: UMP Whey/Casein Protein Powder

“This whey and casein blend, backed by one of bodybuilding’s oldest brands, is a great way to pack on muscle mass.”
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Mommi - PreNatal Protein Shake - Chocolate Powder | OB/GYN Recommended Protein & Prenatal Vitamin Blend | All Natural, Non GMO, Non Toxic & Gluten Free Ingredients | Essential Health for Mom & Baby Best Protein for Pregnant Women: Mommi PreNatal Protein

“This prenatal protein and vitamin blend is formulated for healthy, happy pregnancies.”
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Top 20 Best Protein Powders for Women

Best Whey Protein Powder for Women

Her Natural Whey Protein Powder

  • No artificial sweeteners

  • Gluten-free

  • Excellent protein source

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    21.1g
    protein
    3.2g
    carbs
    2.1g
    fats
    116
    calories

    This is a great-tasting, naturally-sweetened whey protein powder perfect for supporting lean muscle and fat loss.

    Whey protein, a byproduct of milk, is the most popular type of protein powder. It’s a complete protein source (which means it contains all essential amino acids), and it’s easily digestible by the body.

    Her Natural Whey balances the raw nutrition of whey protein with just a little bit of natural stevia leaf sweetness. It’s great for any health and wellness goal, from muscle maintenance to fat loss.

    BOTTOM LINE

    This is the best protein powder for any woman wanting a healthy, no-nonsense, go-to option.

    Best Weight Loss Protein Powder for Women

    Ascent Native Fuel Casein Protein Powder

  • Filling protein

  • No artificial ingredients

  • Gluten-free

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    23.4g
    protein
    1.9g
    carbs
    0.8g
    fats
    103
    calories

    This is a healthy, lean, filling protein powder that’s perfect for weight loss.

    Casein protein powder is a milk product popular for its filling, slow-digesting protein content. It has the ability to clump up in the stomach, making you feel fuller for longer while slowly providing the body with amino acids.

    Ascent Native Fuel is an all-natural, gluten-free casein protein powder that’s perfect for weight loss. Because it’s digested so slowly, it’s a great option for managing appetite while maintaining a fairly low calorie count.

    BOTTOM LINE

    This casein powder is one of the best protein powders for weight loss, helping you feel fuller for longer.

    Best Tasting Protein Powder for Women

    Natural Force Organic Whey Protein Powder

    Sale
  • Tastes great

  • 3-4 ingredients, organic

  • Keto, paleo, gluten-free

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    22.4g
    protein
    3.4g
    carbs
    1.7g
    fats
    123
    calories

    This whey protein powders comes in three delicious flavors with just a few organic ingredients. The cacao bean, coffee bean, and vanilla bean flavors keep things sweet without going too wild.

    This protein powder is organic, non-GMO, kosher, and gluten-free. It’s also perfect for those looking for paleo protein powders and keto-approved protein powders. It’s a great option for anyone wanting a great-tasting protein powder without unhealthy additives.

    BOTTOM LINE

    This is a delicious, organic protein powder available in vanilla, cacao, and coffee flavors.

    Best Plant-Based Protein Powder for Women

    Tone It Up Organic Protein Powder

  • Vegan

  • Organic

  • No sugar

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    19.6g
    protein
    2.6g
    carbs
    2.6g
    fats
    117
    calories

    This organic pea and pumpkin seed blend is a fantastic plant-based protein source. It’s naturally flavored with organic ingredients and sweetened with monk fruit extract. No sugars or animal-based ingredients here!

    This is ones of the best plant-based protein powders for women. It’s organic, vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free, and kosher. It’s a great option for any health and wellness goal.

    BOTTOM LINE

    This plant-based protein powder is delicious, organic, and all-natural.

    Best Muscle Gain Protein Powder for Women

    Revel Whey Protein Powder

  • Women-focused

  • Whey/casein blend

  • Complete protein

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    20.3g
    protein
    3.2g
    carbs
    2.4g
    fats
    114
    calories

    Revel offers this female-focused protein powder blend perfect for building muscle.

    A blend of whey, casein, and whey isolate proteins, it’s formulated to feed the body with multi-phase-releasing protein sources. It’s gluten-free, growth hormone-free, and perfect for fueling lean mass.

    One unique benefit that the Revel brand advertises is that all of their products are formulated around research specifically on women. As they put it, this protein powder is made by women, for women.

    BOTTOM LINE

    This whey and casein powder blend is one of the best protein powders for women trying to build muscle.

    Best Keto Protein Powder for Women

    Perfect Keto Collagen Peptides Protein Powder

  • 100% grass-fed

  • Keto-friendly

  • Flavor options

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    17.6g
    protein
    1.8g
    carbs
    7.1g
    fats
    141
    calories

    These grass-fed collagen peptides are a great keto-promoting protein option.

    This powder is perfect for maximizing protein on a ketogenic diet. Each 17-gram serving contains 5 grams of MCT oil powder, which helps maintain a state of ketosis.

    Take a look at our MCT oil guide for more information and top picks.

    BOTTOM LINE

    This collagen protein powder is one of the best protein powder for women on ketogenic diets.

    Best Whey Isolate Protein Powder for Women

    Amazon Elements Grass-Fed 100% Whey Protein Isolate Powder

  • Grass-fed whey isolate

  • No artificial sweeteners

  • No soy, gluten, or GMOs

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    23.4g
    protein
    2.8g
    carbs
    0.5g
    fats
    113
    calories

    This grass-fed whey isolate is a clean, high-quality protein source.

    Amazon’s own 100% whey protein isolate is a great option for maximizing protein intake. It’s made from grass-fed, non-GMO, natural whey isolate, with no artificial sweeteners.

    Whey protein isolate tends to have more protein per serving than many other options. This is makes it a great choice for getting extra protein without too many extra calories.

    BOTTOM LINE

    This whey isolate is a great protein powder for maximizing protein intake.

    Best Meal Replacement Protein Powder for Women

    RSP TrueFit Meal Replacement Protein Shake

  • Nutrient-rich

  • Probiotic-packed

  • Filling

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    15.3g
    protein
    8.6g
    carbs
    2.1g
    fats
    104
    calories

    This grass-fed whey shake is packed with fruits, vegetables, fats, and probiotics.

    Each 49-gram serving of this powder contains 25 grams of grass-fed whey protein, 5 grams of BCAAs, and lots of fiber, vitamins, and minerals from fruits and vegetables.

    This protein powder is a great way to keep full throughout the day. It contains no GMOs, gluten, or artificial sweeteners, flavors, or preservatives.

    BOTTOM LINE

    This is the best protein powder for women looking for a filling meal replacement shake.

    Best Casein Protein Powder for Women

    Less Naked Casein

  • 1-3 ingredients

  • Organic, non-GMO

  • Free of soy and gluten

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    21.1g
    protein
    4.9g
    carbs
    0g
    fats
    105
    calories

    Naked’s casein powder is a lean, clean source of long-lasting protein. The two flavored powders contains only three ingredients, while the unflavored option contains only one.

    Since casein powder dissolves more slowly than most others, it’s a great option for slow-release protein that keeps you feeling full for longer.

    BOTTOM LINE

    This clean, minimal-ingredient casein protein is a great option for long-lasting nutrition.

    Best Low-Carb Protein Powder for Women

    Isopure Zero-Carb Protein Powder

    Sale
  • Zero carbs

  • Low-calorie

  • No gluten or lactose

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    24.2g
    protein
    0g
    carbs
    0g
    fats
    97
    calories

    This zero-carb, low-calorie whey isolate is perfect for stricter diets. It contains no added sugar, and manages to stay low in calories while delivering a lot of protein.

    As a bonus, this whey isolate powder is lactose free, which is not easy to find in a whey product. It’s also gluten-free and keto-friendly.

    BOTTOM LINE

    Isopure’s whey isolate powder is zero-carb and low-calorie while delivering plenty of protein.

    Best Egg White Protein Powder for Women

    Paleo Thin Egg White Protein Powder

  • Complete protein

  • Keto-friendly

  • Paleo-friendly

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    25g
    protein
    1g
    carbs
    0g
    fats
    108
    calories

    Egg whites protein powders are a super rich protein source. They’re a source of complete protein and they’re low-carb, keto- and paleo-friendly, and all natural. This powder is a great option for women wanting high-quality protein.

    And for those who want the fewest ingredients possible, the unflavored powder contains only egg white powder and sunflower lecithin (a natural fat used for texture).

    BOTTOM LINE

    Paleo Thin’s egg white powder is a simple and clean, high-quality protein supplement.

    Best Collagen Protein Powder for Women

    Collagen Peptides Powder – Double Hydrolyzed

    Sale
  • Double hydrolyzed

  • Grass-fed, non-GMO

  • Unflavored

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    25.7g
    protein
    0g
    carbs
    0g
    fats
    107
    calories

    This protein powder contains nothing but collagen peptides and digestive enzymes. And these peptides are derived exclusively from grass-fed, non-GMO bovine sources. They’re perfect for ketogenic diets.

    The collagen peptides have also been double hydrolyzed for easier absorption. This process combined with the mixed-in digestive enzymes makes this one of the most digestible amino acid supplements on the market.

    BOTTOM LINE

    This is a high-quality, clean concentration of easily-digestible collagen peptides.

    Best Organic Protein Powder for Women

    Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder

  • Organic

  • Vegan

  • No gluten, lactose, or sugar

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    13.7g
    protein
    9.8g
    carbs
    2.6g
    fats
    98
    calories

    This protein powder is all organic, all natural, and always delicious, no matter the flavor.

    The powder is unique blend of organic pea, brown rice, and chia seed proteins. Each of these is a complete protein source, and the combination of the three makes this a diverse nutritional supplement.

    Without compromising flavor, this organic protein powder manages to keep it super lean and clean. It contains no artificial ingredients, no sugar, and minimal carbs. It’s a great option for anyone looking for a clean, organic, high-quality protein source.

    BOTTOM LINE

    This organic protein powder is a high-quality source with no added junk.

    Best Hemp Protein Powder for Women

    Nutiva Organic, Cold-Processed Hemp Seed Protein

    Sale
  • Vegan

  • Complete protein

  • Nutrient-rich

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    15g
    protein
    9g
    carbs
    3g
    fats
    90
    calories

    Super low in calories without skimping on nutrients, this hemp powder is a great vegan protein source.

    Although not as popular as whey or casein protein, hemp protein powder is a great plant-based protein supplement. It’s a complete protein source that’s packed with fiber.

    This organic, non-GMO hemp powder is a rich source of nutrients. It contains omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and gut-cleaning fiber in plenty. This is a great option for weight loss, calorie-strict diets, and lean athletics.

    If you want some other plant-based options, you can take a look at our list of the best vegan protein powders.

    BOTTOM LINE

    This all-natural hemp protein powder is a great option for high-quality vegan protein.

    Best Pea Protein Powder for Women

    Growing Naturals Pea Protein Powder

  • Complete protein

  • Vegan

  • No gluten, soy, or lactose

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    18g
    protein
    7.2g
    carbs
    1.2g
    fats
    108
    calories

    This pea protein powder is a delicious go-to for those seeking a complete protein source.

    Pea protein powders are complete protein sources, meaning they contain all essential amino acids. Growing Naturals delivers a delicious pea protein powder that doesn’t compromise on quality.

    BOTTOM LINE

    This pea protein powder is a great source of amino acids.

    Best Vegan Protein Powder for Women

    KOS Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder

    Sale
  • Vegan

  • Minimal ingredients

  • All organic

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    15.4g
    protein
    6.9g
    carbs
    4.6g
    fats
    131
    calories

    This blend of five vegan protein sources is a rich source of protein and other nutrients. It contains non-GMO pea, flax seed, quinoa, pumpkin seed, and chia seed protein sources.

    This is a great vegan option for anyone wanting more than just protein. It’s nutrient-dense and packed with fiber, making it an invaluable for any health and wellness goal.

    BOTTOM LINE

    This nutrient-packed blend of five organic protein sources is a great option for extra vegan protein.

    Best Lean Protein Powder for Women

    Isopure Infusions Whey Protein Isolate

    Sale
  • Only 5 ingredients

  • No artificial ingredients

  • Light and refreshing

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    24g
    protein
    2.4g
    carbs
    0g
    fats
    108
    calories

    This light, fruity whey protein isolate is a deliciously lean protein source with no added junk. It’s sweet and refreshing without any artificial ingredients.

    Available in five different fruit flavors, each with only five ingredients, there’s sure to be an option to help with your lean health and fitness goals.

    BOTTOM LINE

    This light and lean whey isolate powder comes in five deliciously fruity flavors.

    Best Weight Gain Protein Powder for Women

    UMP Whey/Casein Protein Powder

  • Whey/casein protein blend

  • Bodybuilding brand

  • Delicious flavors

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    19.1g
    protein
    3.8g
    carbs
    2.8g
    fats
    118
    calories

    Bulking isn’t just for boys. This whey and casein blend, backed by one of bodybuilding’s oldest brands, is a great way to pack on muscle mass.

    This whey and casein blend delivers multi-phase absorption protein. Get an immediate boost in amino acids from its whey content, followed by casein’s long-lasting protein delivery. This blend is perfect for bulking up.

    BOTTOM LINE

    The Ultimate Muscle Protein powder is a solid option for women trying to pack on healthy muscle mass.

    Best Protein Powder for Pregnant Women

    Mommi PreNatal Protein Shake

    Sale
  • Prenatal nurition

  • All natural, no GMOs

  • B-6 for morning sickness

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    12.9g
    protein
    4.3g
    carbs
    5.1g
    fats
    111
    calories

    This prenatal protein and vitamin blend is formulated for healthy, happy pregnancies. It’s packed with recommended servings of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for pregnant mothers.

    As a bonus, it has a healthy dose of B-6 vitamins to help manage morning sickness.

    The ingredients are all-natural and non-GMO, meaning you don’t have to worry about potentially harmful chemical additives. It can be a great option for supplementing a diet during pregnancy.

    BOTTOM LINE

    This pregnancy-focused protein powder is a great nutritional supplement for expecting mothers.

    Best Vanilla Protein Powder for Women

    Designer Protein Aria, Vanilla

  • Delicious vanilla

  • Complete protein

  • Nutrient-dense

  • 30g1 oz1/4 cup
    21.4g
    protein
    7.1g
    carbs
    1.4g
    fats
    129
    calories

    Vanilla doesn’t mean boring. This soy and whey protein blend delivers delicious vanilla flavor without any added sugar.

    This protein powder contains no GMOs, growth hormones, or antibiotics. As a bonus, it’s packed with additional vitamins, minerals, fiber, and biotin.

    BOTTOM LINE

    This is a healthy, clean, and delicious vanilla protein powder.


    All About Protein Powder

    How to Take Protein Powder

    Once you’ve picked the best hemp protein powder for your goals, you’ll need to figure out how to take it and how much to take.

    With most protein powders, the go-to option is to mix the powder into a protein shake. Some powders do this really well, such as whey and casein powders. Other powders won’t dissolve as easily, such as hemp powders.

    For protein powders that don’t mix as easily, you can mix them into foods instead, or even bake with them. Get creative!

    Blueberry Protein Shake
    Get creative with your protein shakes!

    How Much to Take

    • For Building Lean Muscle

    For building lean, toned muscle, research has shown that you should be taking between about 0.73 and 1.1 grams of protein per pound of bodyweight (1.6 to 2.4 grams per kilogram of weight).1A systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression of the effect of protein supplementation on resistance training-induced gains in muscle mass and strength in healthy adults2Do athletes need more dietary protein and amino acids? The more you work out, the more protein you’ll need.

    For women wanting to build muscle, it would be best to take either Revel Whey Protein Powder or UMP Protein Powder.

    • For Losing Fat

    To burn fat, it’s better to consume less protein and fewer calories overall. Studies have demonstrated that the ideal protein intake is around 0.36 to 0.73 grams of protein per pound of bodyweight (or 0.8 to 1.6 grams per kilogram of bodyweight.)3A systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression of the effect of protein supplementation on resistance training-induced gains in muscle mass and strength in healthy adults4Dietary protein intake and human health.

    Leaner protein powders like Ascent Native Fuel Casein Protein Powder and Isopure Infusions Fruity Whey Protein Isolate are perfect for working on losing fat.

    • For Health and Wellness

    For those who want to supplement protein simply for healthier living, you’ll want to stick to the above 0.36 to 0.73 grams of protein per pound of bodyweight (or 0.8 to 1.6 grams per kilogram), depending on your activity level. We recommend sticking with something simple like Her Natural Whey Protein Powder.

    When to Take It

    • For Building Muscle

    If you run, lift weights, or perform other athletic activities, you’ll want to take protein right after your workout.

    Research has linked post-workout protein with a whole bunch of positive effects.

    These benefits are useful for more than just increased athletic performance. Having more lean muscle helps with fat loss, as explained below.

    • For Weight Loss

    If you work out, it’s best to drink a protein shake immediately after your workout. As explained above, this helps with maximizing performance and muscle building.

    But building muscle doesn’t mean you’ll get bulky. In fact, muscle tissue is incredibly important for fat loss. The more muscle you have, the most calories you burn at rest. (This is called your basal metabolic rate, and the higher it is, the easier it is to lose weight.)

    And if you drink protein outside of workout timeframes, it’s better to drink your protein shakes with your meals instead of in between meals. Studies have shown that this can help with losing more fat.14Effects of protein supplements consumed with meals, versus between meals, on resistance training–induced body composition changes in adults: a systematic review

    For more information on protein powder dosage and timing, take a look at our protein powder guide.

    Golfing Woman Drinking Protein Shake
    Protein shake timing is important for meeting specific goals.

    Protein Powder Side Effects and Considerations

    While protein powders are generally quite safe as nutritional supplements, some kinds can lead to mild side effects.

    For those not used to taking protein powder, supplementing a lot of it can result in digestive issues, including bloating and stomach aches. For those concerned, it may be best to take only a little protein powder initially, then slowly work up to the recommended daily dosage.

    For those with lactose or gluten sensitivities, protein powders than contain these elements will likely cause unpleasant side effects. Check the label of each protein powder to see whether it’s advertised as gluten- or lactose-free.

    You can also take a look at our gluten-free protein powder guide.


    Quick Protein Overview

    Not sure if protein supplements are right for you? Here’s a quick overview to help you decide.

    What Proteins Are

    Proteins are the basic building blocks of the body. They’re made of amino acids, which are used for building muscle and connective tissue, as well as performing other functions necessary for life.

    There are 8 amino acids that the body can’t produce on its own but still needs. These are called essential amino acids.

    Not all protein sources are created equal. Sources that contain all essential amino acids are called complete proteins. These include most animal proteins such as whey, casein, and egg whites, but also some plant sources. Hemp, rice, soy, and pea are some other examples.

    Different protein sources are helpful for meeting different goals.

    How Protein Supplements Help

    The following information is summarized from our complete protein powder guide. Check it out for more thorough information.

    With Athletics

    • Building and Preserving Muscle Mass

    Many studies have demonstrated that drinking protein shakes in combination with exercising regularly results in increased muscle mass.15Whey Protein Supplementation Improves Body Composition and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Overweight and Obese Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis16A systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression of the effect of protein supplementation on resistance training-induced gains in muscle mass and strength in healthy adults

    There are a few reasons for this, but one is that drinking protein after a workout has two immediate effects. First, the supply of fresh amino acids from the protein stops the body from breaking down muscle tissue. Second, the body simply creates muscle tissue at a higher rate when supplied with amino acids after a workout.17Reduced resting skeletal muscle protein synthesis is rescued by resistance exercise and protein ingestion following short-term energy deficit.18Postexercise net protein synthesis in human muscle from orally administered amino acids19Protein requirements and muscle mass/strength changes during intensive training in novice bodybuilders.20Effects of exaggerated amino acid and protein supply in man.

    • Boosting Performance and Decreasing Soreness

    Protein supplements help with more than just muscle size. Research has shown that drinking a protein shake after workouts leads to increased strength, performance levels, and one repetition max.21A systematic review, meta-analysis and meta-regression of the effect of protein supplementation on resistance training-induced gains in muscle mass and strength in healthy adults/mfn]21Timing of postexercise protein intake is important for muscle hypertrophy with resistance training in elderly humans22Effects of resistance training and protein plus amino acid supplementation on muscle anabolism, mass, and strength

    There are three major reasons behind this. First, protein supplements simply help the body produce more muscle tissue, as discussed above.

    Second, drinking protein after an intense workout helps restore muscle glycogen, a primary energy source. 23Early postexercise muscle glycogen recovery is enhanced with a carbohydrate-protein supplement24Carbohydrate-protein complex increases the rate of muscle glycogen storage after exercise25Postexercise protein-carbohydrate and carbohydrate supplements increase muscle glycogen in men and women26Regulation of Muscle Glycogen Repletion, Muscle Protein Synthesis and Repair Following Exercise

    And finally, post-workout protein also reduces muscle soreness. Since sore, damaged muscle fiber can’t perform as well as it normally could, reducing soreness results in increased performance and resultant strength gains over time. 27THE EFFECT OF A CARBOHYDRATE AND PROTEIN SUPPLEMENT ON RESISTANCE EXERCISE PERFORMANCE, HORMONAL RESPONSE, AND MUSCLE DAMAGE28Effect of milk-based carbohydrate-protein supplement timing on the attenuation of exercise-induced muscle damage29Acute milk-based protein–CHO supplementation attenuates exercise-induced muscle damage

    SUMMARY

    Taking protein supplements can help with gaining muscle mass, boosting performance, and decreasing soreness.

    With Weight Loss

    Research has demonstrated that drinking protein shakes can help with reducing fat mass while increasing or maintaining muscle mass.30Whey Protein Supplementation Improves Body Composition and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Overweight and Obese Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis31A whey-protein supplement increases fat loss and spares lean muscle in obese subjects: a randomized human clinical study32Effects of protein supplements consumed with meals, versus between meals, on resistance training–induced body composition changes in adults: a systematic review

    There are a few contributing factors here. The simplest is that protein shakes are filling, and can often replace unhealthy food choices. They can help with both appetite control and responsible dietary choices.

    But beyond simple meal replacements, protein shakes help increase muscle mass, which in turns helps with burning fat.

    Even at rest, muscle consumes more calories than fat does. This means that the more muscle tissue you have, the higher your resting metabolism. And the higher your resting metabolism, the easier it is to maintain a calorie deficit and burn fat.

    SUMMARY

    Protein supplements can help with losing fat and maintaining calorie-burning muscle mass.


    Summary

    Protein supplements can be an incredibly useful tool for reaching health and wellness goals. Once you know your goals, you can reference this guide to pick the best protein powder for you.

    For more information on protein supplementation, see our complete protein powder guide.

    Quick Glance
    PRO NUTRITION LABS Whey Protein Vanilla Powder for Women - Supports Lean Muscle Mass - Low Carb - Gluten Free - Grass Fed and rBGH Hormone Free Vanilla Whey (Creamy Vanilla, 1 lb) Best Whey: Her Natural Whey Protein Powder

    “This is a great-tasting, naturally-sweetened whey protein powder perfect for supporting lean muscle and fat loss.”
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    Ascent Casein Protein Powder - 25g Micellar Casein Powder with Zero Artificial Flavors & Sweeteners, Gluten-Free, No Added Sugar, 4.9g BCAA, 2.2g Leucine - Chocolate, 2 Pounds Best for Weight Loss: Ascent Native Fuel Casein Protein

    “This is a healthy, lean, filling protein powder that’s perfect for weight loss.”
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    Natural Force Grass Fed Organic Whey Protein Powder – Non GMO Verified, Humane Certified & Lab Tested for Toxins – Real Vanilla Flavor – Keto Friendly, Low Carb, and Kosher - 16 Ounce A2 Protein Best Taste: Natural Force Organic Whey Protein

    “This whey protein powders comes in three delicious flavors with minimal, organic ingredients.”
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    Tone It Up Plant Based Organic Protein Powder I Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Kosher, Non-GMO Pea & Pumpkin Seed Protein I for Women I 28 Servings, 15g of Protein – Vanilla Best Plant-Based: Tone It Up Organic Protein Powder

    “This organic pea and pumpkin seed blend is a fantastic plant-based protein.”
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    Revel Whey Protein Powder for Women | 25g Protein | Supports Weight Loss Metabolism Lean Muscle | 2lbs (Simply Vanilla) Best Muscle Gain Protein: Revel Whey Protein Powder

    “Revel offers this female-focused protein powder blend perfect for building muscle.”
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    Perfect Keto Collagen Peptides Protein Powder with MCT Oil, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Type I & III Supplement, Gluten Free, Grass Fed, Low Carb, Keto Coffee Creamer, Collagen for Women & Men, Chocolate Best Keto: Perfect Keto Collagen Peptides Protein Powder

    “These grass-fed collagen peptides are a great keto-promoting protein option.”
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    Amazon Elements Grass-Fed 100% Whey Protein Isolate Powder, Natural Chocolate, 2.11 lbs (30 Servings) (Packaging may vary) Best Whey Isolate: Amazon Elements Grass-Fed Whey Isolate

    “This grass-fed whey isolate is a clean, high-quality protein source.”
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    TrueFit Gut Healthy Protein Powder, Grass-Fed Whey Meal Replacement Shake with Prebiotics, Probiotics, & Organic Superfoods, Keto Friendly, Gluten Free Meal Replacement: RSP TrueFit Meal Replacement

    “This grass-fed whey shake is packed with fruits, vegetables, fats, and probiotics.”
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    Naked Casein - 1Lb Micellar Casein Protein - Bulk, Gmo-Free, Gluten Free, Soy Free, Preservative Free - Stimulate Muscle Growth - Enhance Recovery - 15 Servings Best Casein Protein: Less Naked Casein

    “Naked’s casein powder is a lean, clean source of long-lasting protein.”
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    Isopure Creamy Vanilla Whey Isolate Protein Powder with Vitamin C & Zinc for Immune Support, 25g Protein, Zero Carb & Keto Friendly, 15 Servings, 1 Pound (Packaging May Vary) Best Low-Carb: Isopure Zero-Carb Protein Powder

    “This zero-carb, low-calorie whey isolate is perfect for stricter diets.”
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    Julian Bakery Paleo Thin Protein Powder | Egg White | Unflavored | 25g Protein | Soy-Free | GMO-Free | 2 LBS | 30 Servings Best Egg White: Paleo Thin Egg White Protein Powder

    “Egg whites are an incredibly rich protein source, and this powder is packed with them.”
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    Physician's CHOICE Collagen Peptides - Hydrolyzed Protein Powder for Hair, Skin, Joints - Grass Fed, Non-GMO Best Collagen Protein: Collagen Peptides Powder

    “This protein powder contains nothing but collagen peptides and digestive enzymes. Super clean.”
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    Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder, Creamy Chocolate Fudge - 21g Plant Protein, 7g Prebiotic Fiber, Low Net Carb, No Lactose Ingredients, No Added Sugar, Non-GMO, For Shakes & Smoothies, 2.03 lb Best Organic: Orgain Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder

    “This protein powder is all organic, all natural, and always delicious, no matter the flavor.”
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    Nutiva Organic Cold-Pressed Raw Hemp Seed Protein Powder, Peak Protein, 3 Pound, USDA Organic, Non-GMO, Whole 30 Approved, Vegan, Gluten-Free & Keto, Plant Protein with Essential Amino Acids Best Hemp Protein: Nutiva Organic Hemp Seed

    “Super low in calories without skimping on nutrients, this hemp powder is a great vegan protein source.”
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    Growing Naturals Raw Pea Protein Powder, Vegan Plant Based Protein, BCAA, Low-Carb, Low-Sugar, Vanilla Blast, 1 Pound (Pack of 1) Best Pea Protein: Growing Naturals Pea Protein Powder

    “This pea protein powder is a delicious go-to for those seeking a complete protein source.”
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    KOS Vegan Protein Powder Erythritol Free, Chocolate - Organic Pea Protein Blend, Plant Based Superfood Rich in Vitamins & Minerals - Keto, Dairy Free - Meal Replacement for Women & Men, 28 Servings Best Vegan Protein: KOS Organic Plant-Based Protein Powder

    “This blend of five vegan protein sources is a rich source of protein and other nutrients.”
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    Isopure Protein Powder, Clear Whey Isolate Protein, Post Workout Recovery Drink Mix, Gluten Free with Zero Added Sugar, Infusions- Tropical Punch, 16 Servings Best Lean Protein: Isopure Infusions Whey Protein

    “This light, fruity whey protein isolate is a deliciously lean protein source with no added junk.”
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    Beverly International UMP Protein Powder, Cookies & Cream. Unique Whey-Casein Ratio Builds Lean Muscle. Easy to Digest. No Bloat. (32.8 oz) 2lb .8 oz Best Weight Gain Protein: UMP Whey/Casein Protein Powder

    “This whey and casein blend, backed by one of bodybuilding’s oldest brands, is a great way to pack on muscle mass.”
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    Mommi - PreNatal Protein Shake - Chocolate Powder | OB/GYN Recommended Protein & Prenatal Vitamin Blend | All Natural, Non GMO, Non Toxic & Gluten Free Ingredients | Essential Health for Mom & Baby Best Protein for Pregnant Women: Mommi PreNatal Protein

    “This prenatal protein and vitamin blend is formulated for healthy, happy pregnancies.”
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    Designer Wellness, Aria, Women's Wellness Low Calorie Protein Powder with Biotin, Vitamin C and Organic Aloe, Vanilla, 12 oz Best Vanilla Protein: Designer Protein Aria, Vanilla

    “This soy and whey protein blend delivers delicious vanilla flavor without any added sugar.”
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